On the recombination operator in the real-coded genetic algorithms

Crossover is the most important operator in real-coded genetic algorithms. However, the choice of the best operator for a specific problem can be a difficult task. In this paper we compare 16 crossover operators on a set of 24 benchmark functions. A detailed statistical analysis is performed in an effort to find the best performing operators. The results show that there are significant differences in efficiency of different crossover operators, and that the efficiency may also depend on the distinctive properties of the fitness function. Additionally, the results point out that the combination of crossover operators yields the best results.